By Jessica Yadegaran
Wednesday, November 21st, 2007 at 10:09 am in Uncategorized.

You probably haven’t thought about New Year’s yet, but that’s why you have me. I’ve spotted one of the best deals you’re going to find, and I suggest you jump on it before it sells out.

The Culinary Institute of America is offering a lavish, four-course dinner and dancing package for $195 plus 20 percent gratuity per person. If you haven’t been, it’s an absolute must.

Everyone talks about Cyrus and The French Laundry, but for me, CIA has come to define the Napa Valley. It’s the soul of the region.

A bastion of food and wine education for more than 60 years, it juts out of Highway 29 like the castle that it is, churning out nationally renown talent and providing a center for wine professionals and novices alike to come together.

The St. Helena location, smack in the middle of Valley, is also perfect for wine tasting the day before or after.

Here’s what they’re offering: A “Fire and Ice” themed-party begins with an elegant four-course dinner in the Wine Spectator Greystone Restaurant. Two seatings are available at 6:30 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.

Then, the evening continues in the historic Barrel Room savoring an elaborate dessert buffet and dancing to the live music of Five Point O.

I attended the annual L’Chaim dinner in this room, and I can only say it rivals the ballrooms of the Four Seasons and the Beverly Hills Hotel.

At midnight, you get a Champagne toast and a bistro buffet. It’s an amazing deal for the culinary mastery, not to mention the ambiance. If you don’t want to drive back home, check this out:

They’re offering an overnight package for couples which includes the Fire and Ice Celebration, a one-night stay at the El Bonita Hotel down the street, transportation to and from Greystone and breakfast at the hotel on New Year’s Day.

Cost for the package is $550 per couple plus 20 percent gratuity. For reservations, call Andrea Zanow at 707-967-2337. Hurry!